Condition of Oakdale Girl Accidentally Shot is Improving

Updated: 07/28/2013 3:51 PM KSTP.com
By: Cassie Hart

The condition of a 9-year-old Oakdale girl is improving after she was accidentally shot by her younger brother Friday night.

Oakdale police responded to a call reporting the shooting around 6:30 p.m., in the 1800 block of Helena Road North. Police found the girl in an upstairs living room with a gunshot wound to her chest. She was alert and talking with responding police officers.

Police say one of her parents was repairing a rifle when the girl's 5-year-old brother grabbed it and then accidentally shot her.

The girl was taken to Regions Hospital where she was listed in stable condition. She was moved upstairs to Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare Sunday.

This case remains under investigation by Oakdale Police. Police say this should serve as a reminder on the importance of gun safety.

It is illegal in Minnesota to leave a loaded gun, where a child can get it.

At least 85 people in Minnesota have been convicted for leaving unsecured, loaded firearms within reach of a child since 2001.

Convictions stem from the CAP law, which stands for Child Access Prevention.

The law requires parents with guns to keep them locked, unloaded and away from kids.